Damian Copeland

Dr. Damian Copeland is an Adjunct Associate Professor at TC Beirne School of Law, University of Queensland, specializing in the Law and Future of War project. His research examines legal frameworks for autonomous military systems, export controls, and arms trade regulations. With military legal experience across multiple conflict zones, he brings operational perspectives to international humanitarian law.

His publications analyze Article 36 weapon reviews for autonomous systems, addressing accountability challenges and regulatory efficacy. Current work focuses on defense industry engagement for IHL-compliant technology development and sanctions regimes for autonomous weapons exports.

Dr. Copeland holds law degrees from Queensland University of Technology and Australian National University, and is completing a PhD on autonomous weapons reviews. As an Australian Defence Force legal officer, he has deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and East Timor.